Tourism

Djibouti’s tourism sector has set some ambitious goals, including an aim of attracting 500,000 visitors by 2030. The industry is slated to play a key role in the government’s economic development strategy, Djibouti Vision 2035, which looks to leverage the role of tourism as a job creator and foreign exchange earner, in line with broader economic diversification efforts. Djibouti benefits from a variety of niche attractions, including sandy beaches along the Red Sea, salt lakes, volcanic fields and popular underwater diving sites. Yet, according to the World Bank’s “Country Partnership Strategy for the Republic of Djibouti” report, published in March 2014, only 10% of the country’s tourism potential is being exploited. Concerns over infrastructure shortfalls remain, and further capacity development is required, as limited connectivity is an impediment to tourism growth. This chapter contains an interview with Bertrand Lafrance, Founder, Discover and Aid Nature Wildlife Reserve.